| Distance
7 miles. There is a slight descent/ascent as you leave Wye,
and some of the paths are narrow containing rabbit holes. |
The
Stour Valley Walk follows the path of the River Stour as it meanders
through the stunning countryside of East Kent, before reaching the
sea at Pegwell Bay. One of the most beautiful sections of this walk
can be found between the villages of Wye and Chilham, passing through
a rolling landscape with panoramic views. Canterbury is 2.25 miles
away and Ashford is 2 miles away. There are regular bus and train
links to both towns from the start and finish points of the walk.
From
the station at Wye walk up into the village crossing the River Stour
for the first time, and turn left into church street. From the church
follow the route signs for the North Downs Way and Stour Valley
Walk, pass through the college buildings crossing a road and then
out into open farmland. Here the Stour Valley Walk and the North
Downs Way separate. Follow the path cutting diagonally left across
the field towards woodland.
Once
through the woodland the path dips into the valley offering stunning
views of the surrounding countryside. The path continues through
coppiced woodland to open meadow land and the village of Crundale.
The path follows an unmade road branching off to the left across
farmland leading into dense woodland, where the path is lined with
yew trees. The path follows several sections of woodland, and as
you approach Chilham, you will see views of the castle. The path
then branches to your left over a stile, this link path then takes
you back down to the river to the picturesque Chilham mill.
For
Chilham village square follow the road from the mill to the A28
take care crossing. The main square boasts timber framed
houses, a 13th century church and the impressive castle gateway.
For
the railway station turn right at the main road and continue for
approximately 150 metres then turn left the station should
be clearly signed.
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